Drivers could break key Highway Code rule for wearing the wrong sunglasses this June
Failing to wear correct sunglasses may sound like a trivial mistake but it could hit drivers in the pocket as temperatures soar this June.
Motorists could be slapped with hefty fines of up to £5,000 for failing to follow a simple driving law during periods of hot weather this summer.
Wearing sunglasses can prevent motorists from being dazzled behind the wheel with warm summer days elevating the risk of sun glare.
Being dazzled can be a major safety concern with motorists likely to be unable to see hazards in the road ahead which is against the Highway Code.
Experts have urged road users to make sure they purchase a pair of good quality sunglasses and increase stopping distances to avoid being caught out.
However, not just any pair of sunglasses will do with certain drivers requiring special prescription lenses.
Lucy Sherliker, Head of Customer at Zuto Car Finance issued the warning as temperatures continue to soar across the UK.
She said: “Invest in a pair of sunglasses. If you usually use glasses to drive, try out some prescription sunglasses so that your vision is not impacted and your eyes are still protected from the UV rays.
“Leave a greater distance between you and the car in front of you: bright light reduces your reaction time so leaving that little more extra room will make sure you’re covered.”
A study from ATS Euromaster revealed that almost two-thirds of drivers did not slow down as a result of sun glare.
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The report found that a staggering 60 percent of motorists don’t even reduce their speed at all even if they are dazzled by sun rays.
The Highway Code is clear that road users must take precautions during sunny spells to avoid being caught out.
Rule 237 reads: “These conditions could affect your steering and braking. If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if necessary, stop.
However, motorists with improper control of a vehicle or full view of the road could face a hefty fine.
Warranty Solutions Group has stressed that penalties could range anywhere from £1,000 to £5,000 depending on the seriousness of the incident.
Meanwhile, motorists affected will likely be hit with three penalty points on their driving licence in another significant blow.
Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone has previously opened up on the importance of checking if a certain pair of sunglasses is suitable for the road.
He commented: “Sunglasses are labelled in four categories to show if they're suitable for road use.
“The average pair of sunnies are 'category two' and are therefore appropriate for driving. However, darker sunglasses in 'category four', any small fashion glasses, yellow tinted glasses or a pair with large side arms can be deemed too dangerous to drive in.
"Any driver wearing inappropriate sunglasses could be subject to a dangerous driving charge - which potentially comes with hefty fines, penalty points and even prison time.”
